The goal of the collaborative nature of NOAC is to merge the strong assets of two university programs focusing on the scientific and clinical bases of audiology with the Section of Audiology offering students clinical exposure to the breadth and depth of contemporary diagnostic and rehabilitative audiology. The strengths of each institution including academic, clinical and research faculties are combined into one unified Doctor of Audiology (AuD) program. The AuD degree is granted either through The University of Akron or Kent State University depending upon which academic institution the student is enrolled.

The mission of NOAC is to provide excellence in audiology education and clinical experience in order to prepare independent fully competent professional audiologists who provide non-medical evaluation and treatment for individuals with hearing impairment.

The doctoral program consists of a continuous 4 year, post-baccalaureate course of study designed to integrate classroom, laboratory and clinical experiences. The emphasis of the program is on the principles and practices underlying diagnosis, treatment, and provision of hearing health care services.

Up to seven students complete their fourth year of training under the mentorship of clinical audiologists at Cleveland Clinic who assume responsibility as primary preceptors and clinical educators. Each student complete rotations in all aspects of clinical audiology including: behavioral assessment of auditory function; electrodiagnostic and physiologic evaluation of the auditory system; hearing aid fitting process; implantable devices including cochlear implants and osseointegrated hearing implants; auditory-verbal therapy; tinnitus management; and vestibular assessment. Students also participate in mini rotations in the areas of otolaryngology, pediatrics, gerontology and neurology. In addition, students are involved in the research activities of the PhD audiologists.

This unique affiliation between Cleveland Clinic, The University of Akron, and Kent State University serves as a national model for AuD programs.